With the excitement of the Gator Bowl just around the corner, Jaxson Dart, the standout quarterback for Ole Miss, is drawing attention not just for his upcoming game against Duke, but also for his potential as he eyes the NFL draft. Dart, who has solidified his position as the winningest starting quarterback in Ole Miss history, stands at 6'2" and weighs 225 pounds, showcasing notable physical attributes as he prepares for the next level.
Having been named to the Maxwell Award Preseason Watch List for 2024 and finishing last season as a semifinalist for the Davey O'Brien Award, Dart's credentials speak volumes. Known for his above-average arm strength and ability to throw from multiple arm slots, he has also shown skill in picking apart defenses, particularly when he's operating from within the pocket without pressure. His ability to identify favorable matchups and utilize various throwing techniques has made him a difficult player to defend against.
Dart's strengths are evident—he possesses the ability to throw both with velocity and touch, and his quick release allows him to make plays on the move effectively. Given the Ole Miss offense, which often sets up isolated reads for him, he has excelled at executing passes through the middle of the field.
Yet, inside the pocket, Dart faces challenges. Scouts have noted his slower mental processing when reading defenses post-snap and his less than ideal anticipatory throwing ability. He often waits for receivers to create separation before delivering the ball, which can lead to unnecessary pressure and result in mistakes. Emphasis on darting outside the pocket under pressure reveals flaws in mechanics during high-stress situations as he tends to fade away or revert to throwing off his back foot. This defensive pressure can compromise his efficiency and diminish his touch on throws.
Heading to the Gator Bowl on January 2, 2025, Dart expressed unwavering enthusiasm. "There wasn't any doubt. Never really had a second of thought about it. Just really excited to go compete one last time with the guys," Dart said, reflecting the camaraderie found within the team. The Rebels, seeking to finish the season strongly with back-to-back 10-win outcomes, have opted against opting out of the bowl, embracing one last opportunity to showcase their talents.
Dart will not be alone on this quest. His teammate, JJ Pegues, another standout, echoes the sentiment of legacy and commitment to Ole Miss. Pegues, who has made significant contributions both offensively and defensively, stated, "We all want to leave this placebetter than how we found it. For me, being from here, wearing the jersey one more time, representing Chucky Mullins in 38 is a big thing for me." His dedication not only reflects his personal ambition but also embodies the spirit of the community and the values of the program.
Adding to the dynamic of the Rebels is Trey Amos, who has displayed remarkable growth during his time at Ole Miss. Previously flying under the radar, Amos now appears on NFL scouts' radars after leading the SEC and ranking third nationally for passes defended, gaining All-American honors. He stated, "I feel like we still have a lot to prepare for in this bowl game. We're all really excited for this bowl game and to play against Duke. We're just getting prepared. There's still stuff left on the table." Amos aims to finish his college career strongly and improve even more before the NFL draft.
With the Gator Bowl looming, it's evident Dart and his teammates are positioned not just as athletes but as representatives of their University—their culture, their legacy, and their future prospects await. Jaxson Dart's scouting report reveals both his skill set and points of growth, needing more time to adapt to the nuances of higher-level NFL defenses. His contribution during the bowl game could be pivotal, potentially impacting his draft stock.
The matchup against Duke offers dart and the Rebels one final chance to share the gridiron together before moving on to new challenges. All eyes will certainly be on Dart, not only for potential plays on the field but also as he transitions from promising college quarterback to aspiring NFL player. Armed with raw skills and the willingness to adapt, his future looks promising as he embraces the next chapter of his football career.
